MOULAMEIN might be a small town but it’s not afraid to kick big goals and rev up its people.
The Riverina town has championed a sport inspiration and a group that’s a driving force behind a successful yearly event.
Heath Moloney was honoured with Murray River Council Sportsperson of the Year, for a second time, while Moulamein Automotive Club received the Community Group of the Year award on Australia Day.
Mr Moloney received the same honour in 2022.
Mr Moloney was recognised for his “incredible contributions and achievements in football: both on and off the field”.
The citation said 2024 was a year of milestones for Mr Moloney, one that solidified his place among the league’s greatest footballers.
Voted seniors most valuable player, he was also runner-up in the league’s best and fairest award.
“However, Heath’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, early in the year, he faced a serious injury that could have sidelined his season,” the citation said.
“Yet, through sheer grit and a rigorous rehabilitation program, Heath made a triumphant comeback, showcasing his mental toughness and unyielding passion for the game.
“Heath’s impact extends far beyond the football field. As a role model for young players in the Moulamein district, particularly young boys who dream of following in his footsteps, Heath has become a symbol of inspiration.”
Mr Moloney told The Guardian he wasn’t expecting the award.
“You go to work every day of the week … you just need that sort of release or change, social gathering where you around mates and families and just have fun, have a good time,” he said.
Mr Moloney said there were struggles for country football clubs.
“Just purely numbers … towns are getting smaller and then there’s so much opportunity for kids once schools over, or boarding school is a big thing, and then you’ve got uni kids going away, or just people going away, or job opportunities,” he said.
“Every town goes through it, you just do your best you can.”
Mr Moloney wears multiple hats at the club.
“I’ve coached for a couple of years and now sort of just helping out with recruiting and just wherever needs help on the committee,” he said.
“I’ll just do whatever is needed to get anything done around the club.”
Mr Moloney said 2024 was a “tough year”.
“We just sort of scaled back a little bit and gave more local blokes a shot … a lot of juniors got to play senior games and that’s what you need,” he said.
“You need as many young blokes coming through as you can. So I wouldn’t worry about my game. I just like playing footy.”
Mr Moloney said Moulamein was a town built on “making opportunities for everyone to get involved”.
“You can’t leave it up to one or two,” he said. “You’ve got to get together and try and organise these things.”
The Moulamein Automotive Club was recognised for hosting the 2024 Moulamein Show and Shine.
Held in October, the event brought together car enthusiasts, families, and visitors for a day filled with excitement, entertainment, and community spirit.
The vehicles, polished to perfection, were proudly displayed for the 460 visitors, who had the opportunity to chat with the owners and share in their passion.
“What made this event truly special was its inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere,” the citation said.
“With no entry fees, the day featured attractions for all ages, including a jumping castle and the thrilling race car simulator. Delicious catering options ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy.
“The Moulamein Automotive Club, a passionate group of volunteers with over 50 registered historic and vintage vehicles, is more than just a club – it is a community.
“Their dedication to preserving the history of vehicles and fostering mateship shines through in everything they do.”
The club’s Ron Reed said members were “bloody proud” and it wasn’t something they expected.
“When we we put the show on, we don’t do it for anything like that,” he said.
“It was still very good to receive it, and we’re very bloody proud of it.
“There are people out there that just appreciate what you do.”
Mr Reed said the club was ecstatic as the event was only its fourth year.
The club had close to 50 members.
